Welcome to Gaia! ::

It was Monday, and that meant one thing: Rivener had to visit his Guardian. It was a weekly tradition, and no matter how annoying or pointless Rivener thought it was, he still forced himself to go because really, once he got there, it wasn't all that bad and besides, it made Aphismet so very happy. The chef would no doubt flit around as always, getting Riv's drinks and asking him about work, questions which Riv had grown quite adept at deflecting... He winced as he thought of the lie he'd been upkeeping since his return to Felix's payroll. Thank god Aphi never really checked up on the facts, or he would find out that the club Rivener had declared as his new place of employment wasn't really... well... If the human called, and he HAD, the manager was paid to say that yes, Rivener worked there as a bouncer. But one night, just one night of Aphi driving by or coming in person and Riv would be busted, because of course he didn't work there. But the Scorpion had wisely chosen a goth-type club, a place Aphi would never in a million years go. And all the questions about work and how it was going could be answered by a casual: "Oh, same old same old. Keep out some drunks and druggies, break up fights... nothing new. What about you, what's going on lately?" And usually that would invite Aphismet to go off on a happy spiel about how things were going with Alex, all the funny things happening at work, Isi and Eiry's healths. Riv did mostly listening, less talking, and he was fine with that.

It SHOULD have been an easy day, boring even, but most cataclysmic events begin in such ways.

Rivener hadn't bothered with a coat because in the dead of summer like this, there was absolutely no need. He wore his usual unique vest and took the headphones off his ears as he floated up to the house, knocking on the front door. He could hear someone walking briskly to the door and he smiled: Aphi hurrying to see him, though he'd pretend surprise. The door did open and Aphismet grinned happily, lunging out with an arm to hug Riv. "Rivener! It's so good to see you! Come on in! I didn't expect you so soon!" The Scorpion snickered inwardly. "You can make yourself at home for a little while, right? I need to run out and grab a few things for dinner. I'll be back in two minutes, I promise!"

Rivener revised his opinion as his Guardian hurried past him to hop into his car. Maybe Aphi really DIDN'T expect him that early. He'd have to start coming in later. With a wave, the human pulled out of the driveway and Riv raised a hand to wave back, grinning. He ducked inside once the car was out of sight. "Isi? Eiry?" Riv's voice echoed through the house as he put his earphones and player on the counter near the door. ...No answer. Likely they were out. Finding something for Eiry to feed on was a full-time job in the summer, poor guy. The Scorpion was alone in the house for the first time since he'd moved out, and with a smile he began wandering.

His old room. It was a guest room now, devoid of all his things, but it still felt like him. The bead curtain door and the constellation posters were still here, the bed was the same... It was strangely nostalgic. He visited Eiry's room, Isi's, Aphi's, the bathroom... Everything was so familiar and yet different. Little things had changed without his knowledge, making the house a little less his home every time. Home was back in the city's heart, with Zul, now.

Suddenly his melancholic musings were interrupted by the phone ringing. At first he was going to leave it, let the machine get it, but in the end he smiled and indulged in feeling a little at-home. He floated to the receiver in the hallway and picked up. "Hello? Ah, Alex! How are you? I'm visiting Aphi, he stepped out for a-... What?"

As he listened, Rivener's smile deadened. Kyou had gone missing, and they needed a search party to help find him. Leaving at dawn to go search a forest for an entire night.... The Scorpion nodded, then realized that of course she couldn't see that so he added aloud: "You can count on me, I'm going. I'll tell Aphismet you called, too." He hung up and bit his lip, straightening. He WOULD tell Aphi, but only once this was all over and done with. This sounded like a serious thing, but Riv couldn't see his Guardian doing well in a dark forest... Nor Eiry and Isi. Isi couldn't walk through underbrush, and Eiry was more likely to cause problems than be helpful. No, Rivener would go, and it would be enough.

The car pulled up and Riv composed himself, heading back downstairs to greet his human at the door, helping him carry in a heavy bag. "Anything happen while I was out?" Aphi asked, and Rivener lied as smoothly as he always did, smiling congenially. "No, nothing at all!"

He was always very good with lies.

[[Meta Placeholder - Aphismet's wonderings about where the heck everyone went, discovers the issue and is angry to be kept in the dark]]

[[Worried for a Third Heart]]

[[PRP with Zul and Melisande]]

[[Reserved for New Years Prep solo]]

Zul: *the sun was beginning to crest the cityscape when the demon floated into his bedroom with Rivener, draping over the Scorpion and nosing his jaw and neck, rumbling his name softly* Riv'ner, *he purred* we've a guest to take care of. Shall I start breakfast? *he'd since changed shirts from last night into a pale cream button-up half unbuttoned, the likes of which was threatening to not stay on if he had to take measures into his own hands to wake his beloved* Riv'ner~ *he grinned a little, playfully nipping the Scorpion's ear*

Rivener: Mngh? *he shifted as the other's touches trailed up to his ear.* Mhh, Zul-... Guest? Pasha? She's not up yet? *Yawning, the Scorpion rolled slightly so he was properly sprawled under his beloved, grinning up at him with half-lidded eyes. He raised a finger to boop at the other's nose.* Then you'd best get working on that breakfast you promised her, otherwise she'll think us horrible hosts. Go on, I'll get up and change... As soon as I get my own kind of breakfast. *snickering, he leaned up with arms lacing around the Demon's shoulders, pulling him down for a morning kiss.*

Melisande: *it took a while for the Muse to wake, face burrowed into the pillow and hair fanned out over the unfamiliar pillow. Her eyes opened slowly, unfocused and content, until the newness of the room registered. Lips parting, Pasha pushed herself up on one arm quickly, and closed her eyes as a wave of dizziness hit her* When…? Oh. Oh! *memories came filtering back, and she glanced down at the shirt she was wearing. Slender fingers toyed with a dark button. Vi’s unexpected gift of lingerie was still strewn over the foot of her bed. Pasha smiled and slid out from the covers. She slipped out of the room quietly, listening for the boys, and hesitated only a moment before pressing her fingertips against their door with the intent of peeking in to see if they’d woken.*

Zul: Not the last I checked. *He'd been admittedly concerned she might not be comfortable, but she'd slept well enough that he'd noted -- no doubt aided by the booze* Mmn? Hungry, love? *And he grinned with wicked enjoyment, sliding his arms into the warm cocoon of covers to wrap around his dark beloved, laying his form flat over Rivener's blanketed one. Bowing his head, he met Rivener's lips in a firm, eager kiss, slow but intense as all their mornings ought to be. The demon uttered a low, rolling growl-like sound of contentment, dragging Rivener's bottom lip between his teeth before he lifted his head just a little.* Will that sate you for a little while...? *He smiled, coy and teasing.*

Rivener: *The kiss was definitely what he'd wanted, and he arched himself to press more of his body against Zul, smirking at the growly sound from the demon. As they pulled apart he took a sharp breath of air, feeling his insides tingle and flutter as they always did when they kissed.* I am NEVER sated when it comes to you, Flower, but it will do for now. Go on, pry yourself off my sexy self and make me some food. *He grinned teasingly and snapped his fingers then pointed to the door without looking that way, almost hoping Zul would resist and keep kissing him. He, for one, wasn't trying to move yet.*

Melisande: *it wasn’t the best of manners, but Pasha stayed frozen as she was, peeking around the edge of the door. The feeling within her was suddenly as warm as the champagne. She hadn’t expected them to be awake, and she certainly hadn’t expected them to be…busy. Apologies rose reflexively, and she bit her bottom lip to keep them back. If they offered her a place in the house…and offered themselves…was she actually intruding?

Pasha gasped as Rivener snapped and pointed, and her cheeks instantly colored. There was no ducking back now! The fact that Rivener spoke to Zul, of all people, like that…even in jest…made her feel dizzy all over again* You didn’t even say please! Goodness. *she drifted forward hesitantly, still uncertain if this was her place, despite their previous welcomes. The dress shirt had slipped farther on one shoulder, showing the strap of Vi’s white choice over one shoulder* You ARE forward!

Zul: *The demon was beside himself with amusement at the self-compliments and snappy gestures, tilting his head back and laughing. He was about to refute Rivener's 'demands' and give him a thorough amount of attention -- but Melisande's voice stole his thoughts, making him jerk his head around with his eyes wide. Not only had she seen them - she'd stayed! New beginnings, indeed!* Melisande. *The amusement lingered, and in good spirits, he rolled onto his side, propping his arm up on one elbow to press the back of his head against, watching her, the other arm lazily draping over Rivener's chest. It's clear he had no intent to listen to the Scorpion's 'demands.'*

You should come help me punish him properly, hm? Before I /do/ make breakfast. *He glanced sidelong to Rivener.* Maybe for you, but not for him, not without a please~

Rivener: *startled by the sudden voice, the Scorpion looked over to where he'd been pointing, eyebrows arching high before he let his head roll back and laugh. Zul made himself comfortable and Rivener simply splayed comfortably on the bed, giving a langorous stretch, a contented cat in a warm spot of sun. His eyes glittered as he took her in, with his shirt slipping off her shoulder like that...* I have to say, you wear that much better than I do. I'm tempted to let you keep it. As for being punished, oh no! *he raised his arms and pretended fear, pulling a corner of blankets up to his nose and giving false trembles, pulling his best puppy-dog eyes* Please, no, anything but that! *Maybe he would say please later. Or just snap his fingers again.*

Pasha: *she had been so prepared to pretend she hadn’t noticed, or soothe things over with another joke, but they didn’t seem angry in the slightest. Or embarrassed in the slightest. Their total comfort with the sensual scene gave her a moments pause. Everything about them was welcoming…even Rivener’s terrible attempt at being contrite was an invitation. Melisande’s smile flickered slowly, growing brighter until she covered it with one hand.

They were fun.*

You say that, but there’s something you don’t know about me! *she advanced gracefully, wings giving a flick like a dismissive swipe of a cat’s tail. Her eyes flicked to Zul’s for a moment and then down to the covers, silently requesting his aid* “I grew up with a brother! *diving forward onto the bed, she slid her hands expertly along Rivener’s sides as soon as the blanket was out of the way, fingertips prodding at the most sensitive places high on the sides of his ribs* Say please, or you might starve!

*her laugh was infectious, even though she wasn’t the one being tickled. One of Pasha’s wings accidently buffeted Zul, giving the Demon a firm brush upside the cheek* Sorry!! Oh!!

Zul: *He was beginning to learn to read the Muse better, and with a mere flick of her blue eyes, the demon casually curled his fingers into the blankets, watching her with a wide grin. The second she lunged, he pulled the blankets aside, ending up on his back and laughing along with her. The light pass of her soft wing against his face hardly offended him, breathing in her scent on the air. She was intoxicating, like a rose garden beneath the summer sun.* Melisande, I assure you, your touch, no matter how flurried, is hardly unwelcome.

*Still laughing, the demon languidly tucked the removed covers aside, watching with great interest at the Muse's 'attack.'* Get his hand! If we can roll him over, we can really get him good. *The demon slid an arm between the two, gripping the Scorpion's hips with full intention to flip him over, giving his beloved a knowing grin. He was thoroughly enjoying being able to gang up on him for a change.*

Rivener: *as soon as she started to advance, Rivener knew she was going to strike. That little twinkle in her eye was becoming a wonderfully familiar sight. Then when the blankets were suddenly ripped away Riv yelped and laughed, fending her off with ineffectual arms as he was tickled.* Stop! Stop stop! You'll never get me to say please! I say please to no one! I-.. I'll-! DAMN! Zul, no! NO!! HAAAHAHAHAH!!! *It had all been fun and games until the Demon directed Pasha on how to get him where he was ticklish the most: that spot where wing-leather attached to his back, just that lower little corner. He was flipped over and fingers began assaulting him mercilessly, turning him into a writhing, flailing ball of spikes. Thankfully, he knew how not to let his spikes accidentally catch anything, leaving his two loves unharmed as he tried to get away with all his might.* Damn! DAMN! OKAY, OKAY, PLEASE! PLEASE! *he laughed so hard his eyes watered*

Melisande: *she gasped with laughter as she rocked back, finally giving the Scorpion some peace. Pasha’s hand curled over Zul’s forearm, thanking him silently even as caught her breath* Oh, I’m sorry, sweet boy~ But now I know your secret! *it was the first time she’d ever used an endearment towards Rivener, but it was almost unnoticed as she bent and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek. Pasha tried to shake her hair back, but it was still straightened and didn’t comply the way her curls did* You’re at our mercy forever more!

*pushing away from the bed, she gave the Demon a squeeze before her hand slipped away, fingers barely denting against his firm skin* Breakfast does sound wonderful, though. What can I do to help? *with her hair mussed, shirt askew, and cheeks pink, Pasha didn’t much look like the picture of helpfulness, but it was obvious she meant it*

Zul: Now you'll think twice about not saying please in front of the lady! *He was still teasing, and to show he meant no ill will, he bowed his head and kissed Rivener's cheek after Melisande did, though he murmured a soft, 'love you,' before he pulled back. The demon cast the Muse a glance at her gentle squeeze, bowing his head in acknowledgement and gratitude.* Thank you for helping me subdue the beast. Now I can properly get to making breakfast. *It was nice -- Rivener, breathless from laughter, and Melisande, comfortable in one of the Scorpion's shirts...she belonged. It made sense to see her this way, to him.

'Rolling' off the bed, he straightened and smoothed his shirt to remove errant wrinkles before looking to Melisande.* You can tell me what you'd like, for starters, *he grinned a little* and then I suppose we'll see where to go from there. *Turning his mirthful gaze back to Rivener as he floated towards the door, he tipped his head.* And what do you feel like? I suppose I can make something nice since you did say please.

Rivener: *As soon as they left him alone, the dark Sigel flopped to the bed on his back and concentrated on just getting his breath back, chest heaving. He grinned at the kisses he received and the soft little thank-you from Zul, then he propped himself up on elbows to watch the two beautiful others leave his bed. It seemed just like a dream.* I'd like... hm, what would be the most difficult thing to make. *he tapped at his chin then let himself fall back to the bed.* Waffles with whipped cream and fruit. Be thankful I didn't ask for eggs benedict! *he declared, shoving his pointer finger in the air while he stared at the ceiling.* Now get out so I can change! You two bullies made a mess of me! *He laughed as he said it, stealing any sting from his words.*

Melisande: *following the Demon out, Pasha turned and shot one more smile over her shoulder to Rivener before she left. That same sense of contentment had stayed with her from the night before, and there was something new about her when she was at ease. She followed Zul to the kitchen and rested her elbows against the counter as she watched him ready*

Blintzes with strawberries? Or crepes with almonds and chevre? *The Muse smiled, but she was genuinely listing her favorites. Unlike Rivener, she didn’t hold back* I do like waffles, if that’s on the menu instead. Zul? If I can ask…? *Pasha leaned forward, still watching him with her wide eyes behind the mess of her bangs* What do you do at night? What did you do last night?

Zul: You think that's a mess? Wait until I get my hands on you later. *He half-sneered, half-grinned, a dark promise between the two. Giving Rivener space to dress and primp to make himself presentable, he floated to the kitchen and retrieved a tablet on the counter, arching a brow at Melisande and typing in the words she mentioned.* I've never heard of a blintz. We have strawberries, we got those special for you, so that almost goes without saying. *He mulled through the recipe but made a soft 'tsk' sound.* We don't have ricotta right now. I could get a recipe to make it, but we'd be eating them for dinner, not breakfast. But crepes! Crepes I can do. If you'd like to whisk the eggs and the flour -- *he set them out as he said each ingredient's name, putting a cup next to the latter* -- that would be a great help.

*He grabbed the strawberries from the fridge and put them out for no obvious reason, though within reach of the Muse. Plucking the chocolate from last night, he quickly warmed it in a bowl and put that near the fruit. A snack, as it were. At the question, he did not even pause, continuing to oil a pan and prepare the proper heat.* It varies. Last night, I stayed with Rivener for a few hours - it helps him sleep - then I cleaned up, watched the festivities from the patio, checked in on you a few times to make sure you were sleeping peacefully... *He cast her a brief smile that wasn't as apologetic as he meant it to be.* Sometimes I go out. Most of the time, I stay home and with Riv. I steal his laptop if I get restless. We don't see as much of each other as we'd like while we work, so I take what time I can get with him.

Rivener: Promises, promises, *the Scorpion chuckled as the other two exited. He lounged a moment longer, stretching, basking in his unbelievable morning, reliving last night a tad. With a wide beaming smile on his face he pulled himself out of bed and to his closet, picking out a comfortable sweater of light wool with a wide neck and sleeves he kept rolled to the elbows. It wasn't a color he wore often, an ochre yellow, but it was the most comfortable thing he'd ever put hands on and he figured hey, he'd done the impressing last night. Today he could let Melisande see him when he was utterly relaxed. And so his hair received a finger-brushing before being pulled up into a messy ponytail, the two long locks in the front draping over shoulders as always. He wandered out of the room to find the other two in the kitchen, the scent of warmed chocolate and strawberries drawing him to the counter.* So what'd we decide on for food? Mnh, delicious. *he'd put a hand at the small of Pasha's back as he settled beside her, plucking a berry and dipping it in the chocolate to take a bite.* And what are you two talking about, hm?

Melisande: About Zul peeping at girls while they sleep. *Melisande’s face was utterly innocent, eyes still wide, but she spoiled the illusion by leaning forward to n** Rivener’s strawberry before he could lift it to his mouth. Not a hint of guilt graced her features, though her eyes were once again bright behind her pale fall of hair*

Oops! Here. *she smiled, and wiped the chocolate from her lips with her thumb before dipping a new one and offering it to the Scorpion* I asked how he spends his nights. I’d like to stay up sometime, too. I’ve never tried not sleeping. *it seemed the Muse was serious. She pulled the eggs and flour towards herself carefully, making sure she’d cracked each egg carefully and left no shell before moving on to the next ingredient*

That’s the reason I thought you might like the bonzai~ *she explained a bit shyly, eyes still on the bowl as she spoke* They take a lot of care, but I remembered you had time to spend. Since Rivener…appreciates…the night sky, have you both considered reversing your schedules? Staying awake at night together, instead?

Zul: *The demon nodded somberly at Melisande's answer, not bothering to expand upon it, doing well to repress a smile. Sifting the similar dry ingredients into two different bowls, he began to add small differences to each.* Crepes and waffles, love, *he answered the Scorpion's breakfast inquiry* to please both of my special ones. *He flashed a playful smile.* I'll sample some of both, just to stay impartial~

*His eyes flit to Melisande as she brought up her most generous Christmas gift, smiling in admiration.* It's perfect. I'll do some research, but I look forward to its growth. *Especially since it gave a fragrance like Melisande, though he'd keep that part ot himself.* But should you ever crave company during the night, I am your willing companion. I suppose the reason I don't sleep is because of my make up -- I've no idea if it's a Raevan capability. *He pursed his lips in thought at that before shrugging and moving on, continuing with his work, taking the mixed wet ingredients with a soft 'thank you' to Melisande and dashing it upon the pan. The demon's focus was absolute, eyes unmoving as he counted the seconds in his head for proper flipping.*

Ah. *He glanced to Rivener at the mention of the sleep cycle reversed.* Not so certain it would work with our work schedules, but it would be nice. Perhaps with your beautiful gift. *It was an invitation for her to come back, to stay another night - an entire night awake - with both of them.*

Rivener: Hey! *he laughed as his berry was stolen out from under him, smirking at Pasha. When she offered one in return, he happily took the proffered fruit, gleaming fangs showing for a moment before he bit down.* And now you know his dirty little secret: Zul is a big perv. Any time I'm not keeping a close eye on him, off he goes peeking on girls. *Riv sighed tolerantly, then watched the pair working on waffles and crepes.* As for sleeping, I dunno about you but I actually get sleepy after a while. Zul just never seems to. And I DO stay up pretty late already since I feed off the starlight, but around four or five is the latest I can stay up. I'd have to sleep eventually, and my job can... can call me over at some weird times, sometimes. *he smirked, shrugging a shoulder.* But yeah, maybe we could all try a stay-up-all-night experiment sometime! With less booze, because that makes me drowzy. *He picked up another chocolate strawberry and offered it to Meli, apparently making a habit of feeding the pretty Muse now.*

Melisande: *she wetted her lips for a moment at the thought of another bite, but pointed at the Demon. It was his turn for a nibble* Zul, that's terrible. Those poor girls. *Pasha swiped the tip of her finger along the rim of the bowl, popping her fingertip in her mouth for a moment before continuing. She was proud of the way she kept her straight face* But I'd like to try that, sometime.

What is your job, Rivener? *she asked, revisiting her fingertip daintily for the last bit of chocolate. Zul's breakfast was starting to smell amazing. Pasha glanced sidelong at the Demon, eyes crinkling warmly. No one had ever cooked for her, before. Aside from Anderson* I'm sorry I haven't asked before. There's a lot I don't know...

Zul: It's in my nature! *He sounded every bit the tragic character, the boy caught with his hand in the cookie jar.* Their sleep is just so precious to me. *Even as he talked, his focus remained; six crepes were finished in that time, and the waffles started in the iron. Taking some of the strawberries, he began to cut them in halves and quarters, laying them neatly against the warp crepes. The Muse's question about Rivener's job did little more than earn a brief glance towards the Scorpion, not entirely sure how he was going to handle that question. Adding whipped cream, he deftly finished the crepes. It was not his first time.* Here we are, crepes sans all those fancy things you asked for, I do apologize -- we'll make sure to stock it for you. *And he smiled, hoping she understood he wanted to do this, more than just this once.*

Rivener: *he gave a small pout at his gift being denied, but he thought it beyond sweet that she wanted him to go feed Zul a berry. He graced her with a smile and nod, then wandered around the counter to find his Flower and bring the treat to those lips, waiting patiently until Zul took that bite and stalling for time as he thought of a good way to answer. But that would involve lying, and he wasn't sure he wanted to have to LIE to her when he was inviting her into his life. Because it would be inviting her to that world. So Riv gave Zul a regretful, apologetic look and hoped he wasn't about to ruin what they had.* I, uh... My work. It's... It's not always pleasant, Melisande. Maybe not the best thing to talk about while we all get to know each other. But if you're really worried, ask me again and I'll tell you. *he gave a sheepish smile.* For now, I can at least tell you that I'm a bodyguard for someone. And Zul here, for a while he was a glass-blower! You saw that thing by the south windows? He made it. And now he works building things!

Melisande: *the plate of crepes looked divine, and Pasha accepted it with both hands, lips parted* They're perfect~ *his smile was like a cherry on top. Her heart skipped, thinking of all the times she'd been witness to her own reflection captured in her eyes. Now, she could see herself in his smile* Thank you. *she glanced up as Rivener fed the other a berry, her smile dimpling for a moment before she took a bite. Pasha didn't stand on ceremony and wait…it would be a while before the waffles were ready* It's perfect. Try some! *she offered her plate towards the boys, but not before stealing a bit of whipped cream on the tip of the same chocolate finger*

*She finished the taste, eyes wide, as Rivener danced around what he did for a living. A body guard?* That…can't always be easy. I…thank you, for telling me. *Pasha had no idea what that entailed, not really, but it he was unwilling to discuss it all during their lovely morning, it must be serious*

There are…parts of my responsibilities that aren't so easy, as well. We can discuss it all, sometime, if that's okay.

*she leaned forward again, looking for something else to help with while they sampled her plate of crepes. It was amazing, watching the way Zul moved in the kitchen. His focus was almost hypnotic, like a musician lost in the tune* After Valentines, maybe...

Zul: Thank you, *he returned lightly, the way she looked at him making him feel light and airy* for your kind words and presence. It's usually all eggs benedict here. *He was teasing again, of course, but he easily accepted the praise. He'd been taught by the best, but that was not currently up for discussion. When Rivener pressed near, the demon was then quite alert to the Scorpion's proximity, parting his lips to accept the berry, taking just a bite. He hummed in satisfaction, leaning forward to share a brief kiss with the Rivener before resuming his breakfast duties; he couldn't neglect Rivener's food now!*

Thank you, love. *This time, the pet-name and word was directed to Melisande, gingerly cutting one of the crepes to a third and taking the small piece, sampling it. He shrugged and nodded - it was okay, but it wasn't as good as it could have been, so he felt - and set about cutting up a few more strawberries for Rivener's toppings. He gave pause at Melisande's small confession and, knowing what Rivener was hiding, her words gave him a sort of foreboding.* Why are the two of you embroiled in such dark things? I work construction. I'm positively boring! *He chuckled after his words but gave a start, almost looking forlorn by her words.* Valentine's? But that's -- *He visibly bit his words back, still for a moment and offering a short nod.* Yes, of course. Whenever is best for you.

Rivener: *he took a piece of the crepe and hummed in delight at the taste, stealing a second bite and dipping it in the chocolate for an extra kick of deliciousness.* You're not boring, Zul, you're reliable. And manly. Nothing manlier than a construction worker, right? *he winked at Melisande.* That crepe really IS delicious. But no slacking, where's my waffle? *the Scorpion smacked Zul's arm playfully and wandered back around to Pasha's side, clearly elated that the tension of his job was brushed aside for now. And contrary to Zul, Rivener knew Melisande had no intention of staying away until Valentines, just that they would keep the more serious discussions for a later date, when they knew each other better. The Scorpion grinned at both his loves, again putting a hand at Meli's back and leaning in to nose her hair aside, kissing her cheek.* Awww, how cute, Zul looks like a little neglected puppy because he thinks you won't see him until Valentine's! I just love it when he looks like that, and it's so hard to do. Say something else! Say he looks silly in that shirt! It's totally not true, but he doesn't know that.

Melisande: *Pasha paused, eyes moving to Zul’s face slowly. Love? Had he been talking to her? As new as it had been using an endearment with the Scorpion, Melisande had also never had the chance to get used to them in turn. More importantly than that, the Demon had always been rather circumspect in how he spoke about his feelings. To hear such a word used in such a familiar way made her heart race*

You… *the word was so faint that it went unnoticed, and she pressed one hand against the buttons of the borrowed shirt* Construction! *she tried to catch back up with the conversation, and her half smile was sweet* I didn’t know! And don’t tease him, Rivener, he’s cooking! Unless you want a burned waffle.

*her tone was teasing, but the Muse was still turning things over in her mind. Her life had changed so much, so quickly…and the warmth of it felt like an old friend. It wasn’t easy keeping up with them., but she was enjoying the challenge* If you need to keep busy, you could help me with my hair. I’m not sure why yours looks amazing when you just woke up…

Zul: *Engrossed as he was, he was unaware of his verbage and Melisande's reaction to it, continuing to prepare for Rivener's breakfast. He glanced up as she repeated the word he'd said before, smiling in a disarmed, uncertain manner.* I work with my woman's brother. I've been thinking I need to get my own job and not out of the kindness of others, but I'm not sure where to turn yet.

*He bit back a grin as she chastized Rivener about the waffle, sticking his tongue out when he was called a puppy. Grateful that his small moment of upset had been passed, he nodded in agreement.* Riv'ner, you go help the beautiful woman with her hair or you can stand here and watch your waffles burn, but she will be tended to. *Not that he was sure he COULD brush her hair without feeling like they were a bit too intimate - amusing, considering his previous endearment - but he was certain his Scorpion beloved would not pass up the opportunity to pamper the Muse*

Rivener: Awww, it's all ruined now, he's grinning in that way that just makes me want to kiss him again. *Riv smirked as he said it, winking at Zul. When the order was given for him to either brush Pasha's hair or suffer burnt waffles, the choice was simple:* Hair brushing it is! My princess, if you will please follow me to the bathroom we can discuss brush choices and detanglers. My hair looks GOOD in the mornings because, honestly, come on: I make everything look good. *He grinned cheekily and winked at HER now, escorting her to the bathroom where he had the immense pleasure of brushing out her golden waves. Then there was a delicious breakfast to eat, and a slow, luxurious morning to enjoy. All in all, Rivener could not have wished for a better start to the year.*

Rivener heard a key fitting into the door's lock and he tensed, inhaling to keep his breath quiet. The overly-large dark gray sweater hung over him like a blanket, covering his hands to nis fingernails and dipping mid-way down his ribbon, the bunched collar hugging at his neck. It covered almost all his skin but his face. There was no covering his face! He'd tried to hide from Zul when the ugly dryness had begun, but that had proven useless. His pride and dignity had suffered to let his Flower see him like this. Riv had hoped to at least save his dignity in Melisande's eyes, hiding from her in turn, and he didn't want to chance this being HER visiting! Gritting his teeth, hands up to shield his face where the skin was cracking in dark veins, Rivener dashed off the sofa and to his room, closing the door as quietly as he could manage and flattening himself against it. It hurt his heart not to see her, and he hoped to high heaven she wouldn't think his cold shoulder a bad thing, but he just didn't want her to see him like this!

Pasha drifted inside, closing the door quietly behind her. She wore their key on her long chain today, next to the decorative key Rivener had once gifted her with. The Muse paused for a moment, listening. "Rivener? ….Zul?" No response. The bag she was carrying rustled in her arms as she shifted it.

Last time she'd come, she hadn't been able to see Rivener. It seemed the Scorpion was under the weather. This time, Pasha had come prepared. It was too bad he wasn't here, but it seemed strange that he would be out and about when he wasn't feeling well. Unless…he was at the doctors?

A little knot of worry settled into her stomach. Pasha adjusted the bag again and fished for her cellphone, dialing Rivener's phone with a touch of the button on the screen.

Rivener bit his lip to keep the groan in his throat from being voiced. It WAS Pasha, and when she called for him, he almost answered back without thinking. Only his vanity kept him in check. One glance in the mirror he could spy on the dresser, and he knew why he had to stay hidden. He'd brushed his hair into his face but it was no help. Those ugly cracks, the pieces of his skin missing... Again he brought a hand up and covered himself, sighing in regret. Just a few more weeks. ...god, weeks! So long! Would she be patient that lo-

*Rrrriiing!* His cell phone betrayed him!!! Gasping, Riv dove for the sweater's pocket, pulling it out quick and picking up. "H-Hello?" he asked, his voice rusty from being silent so long today.

Pasha had already been drifting towards the room, intending on leaving something for the Scorpion when he returned. Hearing the echo of the ring through the door shocked her. For a moment, the Sigel floated perfectly still, phone a few inches from her face. That couldn't be right…

"Rivener? I'm…are you in your room?" Confused, Pasha knocked softly on the door, balancing the back on her 'hip' and pinning the phone between her shoulder and cheek. "Did I wake you?"

Rivener swore, hearing her voice just on the other side of his bedroom door. Turning, he pressed his shoulder against the wood to make sure she didn't come in, then cleared his throat to speak more clearly. "Uh, I-... Yeah I'm here. Sorry, I was-... I didn't hear anyone come in. I'm-... You can't come in here, I'm not... Err, well." He hoped that would be enough. Did Raevans even catch colds? The only sickness Rivener ever recalled having was that Fel Virus! Being filled with poisons and antidotes made him rather resistant to any foreign bodies: they tended to get burnt up in his blood. But maybe it wasn't so for other of their kin? Maybe that would be enough to convince Pasha not to come in? He really didn't want to lie to her, and he'd stretch the truth as far as he could. ...Though he'd already lied by saying he hadn't heard anyone come in. Guilt rippled through him. "Sorry. You can stay as long as you like though!"

Pasha hung up the phone, and tucked it back in her pocket. She was relieved he was here, but his answer concerned her. The Sigel rested her free hand upon the door for a moment, considering. "I have a better idea. Hear me out?"

She dropped her hand to the handle, trying to let herself in slowly and quietly, so as not to disturb him. Her heart was racing as the words rose, but she spoke them anyway. "Let me visit, for a little while at least? And…if I get sick…I'll lay beside you and keep you company until we are both better."

Rivener heard the dial tone and kept the phone at his ear, panicking a little bit. He saw the handle start to move and his eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. She was so sweet, so unbearably sweet, and he wanted nothing more than to cuddle up to her and be pampered while his body ached and shed like it did this month every year...

"No!" he barked quickly, his own hand snapping down to hold the doorknob steady. "No, M-Melisande, please. I'm really not well. I l-look horrible." And he grimaced as he admitted the truth. It sounded so petty when he said it aloud, even if it felt like the world would crumble if anyone saw him. "I don't like anyone seeing me when I'm like this. Hell, even Zul had to bully his way in here and I would really have rather he didn't. I don't want to see anyone's reaction when they see me like this. I appreciate the thought, really I do. I just don't want to be seen."

Pasha listened, her heart hurting for the sorrow she heard in his voice. It had been a long time since she'd heard that tone. The doorknob went rigid in her hand, and she let her fingers slide off of it. For a moment, she just thought, resting her forehead against the door. Finally, Melisande unlooped her scarf and let it drop to the ground. "You're…not contagious, are you." It wasn't really a question.

Careful not to spill her bag, she bent, pushing the edge of her scarf under the door as best she could. "See my scarf? Take it." She waited until the fabric began to vanish before straightening. "I'm coming in, sweet boy. I will close my eyes. I'll even come in backwards, so you can be sure. I'll let you blindfold me if that's what you need."

Pasha's voice broke just the tiniest bit, a little catch that said more than her words did. "Please…don't keep me out. I…I brought something for you. I'd like to be there. With you."

Rivener waited a moment as the other Sigel processed everything. Her comment, not a real question, needed no answer though Riv did scrunch his eyes shut and lean his head against the door as well, his chest throbbing painfully. He thought that was it, she'd go now as he'd asked, and they would need to mend this later. In a month. A whole month.

But instead there was a rustling sound and the Scorpion was quite surprised to see the edge of a scarf at the bottom, under his door. Pasha asked him to take it, so he did. Her words as he pulled the last bit of woolen tassle through the narrow gap under the door had him smiling ever so faintly, frowning in disbelief that she could be so perfect. She'd found a compromise when he'd seen none. And oh, every time she called him sweet boy, his heart...!

"Alright. Keep your eyes closed," he agreed quietly, adoration clear in his voice. He waited a moment then opened the door, peering around it with one eye. The Scorpion's hands moved to guide her, holding her shoulders and carefully letting her back up once it was clear she was holding her end of the bargain, then he gently wrapped the scarf around her eyes and tied it. "Comfortable?" he asked, a whisper, and once she answered he had no more reason to hesitate: he pulled her into a hug, her back to his chest, nuzzling at her neck and making a soft whimpering sound of relief. "I'm sorry. I really didn't want you to feel kept-out, but I really don't want you to see me like this. I'm glad you came anyway." He breathed her in, smiling and sighing. "I don't like being around anyone when this happens, but I also hate being alone..."

"I will." Melisande promised, and drifted back slowly into his arms. She kept her chin up, making it easy for him to tie the scarf, and even reached up to tug down the corner where she could see a sliver of light before nodding to his question. His hug made the tension she didn't know she was holding melt out of her, and Pasha leaned back into his embrace as she relaxed.

"Thank you for letting me in." She turned around in his arms, offering him the bag. Pasha smiled in her own personal darkness. "This is all for you. Soup, from the new place across the street from my shop. A book, some tissues, tea…" She trailed off, realizing he didn't truly need any of it, and laughed lightly. "I should have just brought an eye mask."

Her smile faded, and she reached for him slowly with one hand, trying to find his chest. "Will you tell me what's wrong?"

Rivener felt her melt against him and in turn melted himself. It was good, so good, to have her here. To hear her voice and feel her warmth, both in body and spirit. She was as much his warm sunshine as Zul was his velvet moon. He grinned at his own sappy thoughts. "Thank you for insisting," he replied to Pasha's thanks, letting her move and turn around in his arms. Her offer, soup and books and teas, were just downright adorable. So she really had thought him sick? Riv smiled and accepted the bag, taking it gently from her hands and exchanging it for a kiss to her cheek. "It's so very thoughtful of you. I will enjoy these even if I'm not stricken as you thought." With his requested time off work, the book in particular would be nice to have around. Riv wondered what she'd picked out for him to read.

For now he put everything aside, straightening just in time for her hand to find his sweater-covered chest. His own hand, also mostly sweater-covered, came to rest over hers and Riv slowly guided her to the bed so they could sit.

"It's... Don't laugh at me. I know it's stupid to take something like this so seriously but it matters to me. ...And don't tell anyone, okay? It's embarrassing. Humiliating." The Sigel took a deep breath, bracing himself for the admission. This was a lot easier when she didn't have to see what he looked like. "Every year during the month of March, for some reason I start to, ah... I guess molt would be the word. My skin dries out and cracks and falls off in pieces. It's... it's really not pretty." Self-consciously he covered his face with his other hand.

Pasha jumped a little at the unexpected kiss, but smiled. She spread her fingers across his chest, glad to feel him close. She'd always loved their company, but ever since Valentines, she found herself actively missing the boys when they were apart. Rivener especially, the way they got along.

"I won't laugh." She promised. "And I won't tell." Melisande listened to his description of the malady with a straight face, biting her lip for a moment at the sadness in his voice. Her hand lifted as she heard his voice muffle behind the sleeve of his sweater.

"It's just temporary, then. Do scorpions do that as well?" She felt a little abashed that she didn't know, but Pasha had never exactly done research on scorpions. Lifting her hand slowly, trying not to accidentally bump him, her delicate fingertips sought his face. "Does…does it hurt?"

She touched what he allowed her to touch, even if it was only his hair. Her lips curved into a small, warm smile. "Something strange happens to me too. It turns out every March I go blind. I think it was meant to be."

She listened patiently as always, and there was no laughter in her voice. No judgement at all. She wondered if scorpions did that and Riv answered with a wry smile: "Some do, yeah. Just my luck that I would inherit that." She reached up for his face but he intercepted her hands, bringing them up to his hair instead. He couldn't bear the thought of her touching his craggly, gash-riddled face. "It does hurt a bit, yeah. Aches. Burns sometimes when a piece is freshly fallen off." Especially the bigger flakes, but he didn't want that mental image to pop into her mind. Instead he nuzzled into her hand with his temple, where the hair covered most of his skin and she couldn't accidentally touch his ugliness.

The little quip of dry humor took him by surprise, as it often did with her. Rivener laughed softly and ran the tips of his nails through the gold locks spilling over the Muse's shoulder, touching her with as little of his skin as possible. "Trust you to make me laugh," he praised. "Even in the month I'm most horribly depressed. You are a gift, Pasha. ...So if you're stricken blind all month, I wonder what we could do while you're so incapacitated." A highly amused smirk lifted the Sigel's lips. "Maybe this would be the best time to pay hide and seek?"

"I think you'd have an unfair advantage." Pasha murmured, her voice just above a sweet whisper. She smiled again in her dark, running a lock of hair between her fingers. In her mind, she could almost see that perfect shade of red. What if it wasn't red? What if it wasn't perfect? In her mind, for a moment, she painted Rivener as frighteningly as she could. Her only worry was his pain.

"You can take it off. My blindfold. When you're ready." She said, fingers still combing through his sleek hair. Melisande withdrew her hand and pressed her fingers briefly to her lips, reaching them forward again. He would press them to his lips in turn, she knew he would. "You might feel better…when you see it doesn't matter to me."

Rivener snickered softly at her comment. Yes, he did have an advantage. But that would be the fun thing! However, there was no distracting Melisande from the problem at hand, it seemed. She went quite for a time, fingering his longest lock of hair, then she offered for him to take off the blindfold, making him tense with concern, frown with self-consciousness. Let her see him? Of course the Scorpion could understand her curiosity, but surely she would flinch when she saw. He looked hideous. Like some monster made flesh. Like he was breaking apart, a puzzle whose pieces didn't quite fit anymore. She couldn't claim it wouldn't matter to her, because she didn't know. Rivener wasn't sure he had the courage to test her conviction.

The delicate fingers offered for his lips, bearing her kiss, were something he couldn't resist. He leaned forward and kissed those fingertips, lingering there with a wry smile. "I might feel better, yes, but what if it DOES matter to you? I'd... It would crush me. I don't dare." He was a bit of a coward, he could admit as much. "Sorry. It's nothing to do with you, though. I simply don't have the confidence to show myself to someone whose opinion means so much."

Even without her sight, she could feel Rivener tense beside her. That wasn't at all what she intended. She could feel his sad smile under her fingertips, and kept her touch feather light upon his lips as he spoke. "I don't think…my opinion should matter to you if I judged you on something like this. But I won't push. I'm glad you let me in."

Her smile returned slowly, and her wings rustled as she dipped her head. "It's not the same, being at the shop. I miss your couch, and my balcony. The smell of your room, and…you. Both of you." Slowly, fingers still on his lips, Melisande leaned forward. He said he ached, and she could hear the stress in his voice, so she was careful not to touch his skin. Her breath was sweet this close, warm against him.

"Don't think about it any more. It will be over soon." Her heart was making her dizzy. The Muse wasn't usually so bold, even with Rivener. Carefully, she let her fingers fall and touched her lips to his in a most delicate kiss if he obliged.

Rivener was rather surprised by her choice of argument, but he had to concede that she was right. If she was the type to be judgemental based on looks... Well, he would still keep her around but it would be quite a shock. She didn't usually. This was all Rivener's vanity and nothing more. If he wanted to let her into his life and into his heart, he'd have to reveal this part of himself eventually like he'd been forced to do with Zul. His pride would sting, but she would be as gentle and understanding as ev-...

The kiss was unexpected, but after the slight flinch of surprise, Riv melted into her, sighing in comfort and kissing her back as delicately as she'd initiated. ...Actually, this was the first time she'd initiated a kiss! Sometimes she invited one, and she certainly didn't refuse one when Riv offered, but she'd never initiated one before! The Scorpion drank as much as he could from her lips, in no hurry to pull away. But when he did, he found he had the courage to smother his vanity for a moment.

"I want to let you in without barriers, Melisande. So I'll let you see." The nerves were evident in his voice, no doubt, but he followed through. She'd kissed him, been bold. He could be bold in return, in his way. Holding his breath, he put fingers to the knot in the scarf and pulled it apart gently, letting the knitted blindfold fall. His shoulders were hunched and he hid up to his nose in the high bunched gray collar, his bangs hiding much of what showed of his face. The cracks were unmistakable, showing the bright red of new flesh underneath, and in some spots it looked like someone had carved a slice out of him and lifted it away to leave nothing but raw, red skin. Around one of his eyes in particular, and he kept that eye half-squinted against the constant sting. "...It looks horrid, I know," he said with a sad smirk, voice muffled in his sweater.

The kiss took her breath away. It was so different, the way he matched her gentleness, the way he let it linger. Suddenly, his hands were tugging at the knot, and the scarf fell from her eyes.

She listened to his words, eyes down as she adjusted, blinking at the grey shapeless sweater he wore. Her hair was mussed, cheeks still pink. Pasha lifted her gaze slowly, seeing clearly the cracks and patches that marred him. "It looks painful." She conceded, and reached forward to touch his lips again. Her smile was slow but warm.

"It makes sense, now. How you always look so handsome. A few days of being rough around the edges, and you get to shine the way you do for the rest of the year." Her smile flashed. She moved her hand to his hair, careful but obviously undeterred. "It truly does look painful, though. I understand if you're shy about it, but…would you be more comfortable without the sweater?" She didn't want to push him, but the worst was past. From here it was finding a balance between his modesty and his pain. Pasha brushed the grey fabric with her fingers, as though offering to help him be rid of it. Lotion against his skin would surely feel better than this...

Rivener watched her eyes keenly for any sign of a wince, but she only seemed worried that he was in pain. She touched his lips, which were indeed one of the few places he wasn't cracked and peeling. Her sudden compliment had him chuckling dryly, turning his head down bashfully. "I suppose if you put it like that. I do pay the price for being so handsome the rest of the time." There truly was no rejection in her behavior at all, and Riv felt the last ball of nerves unravel in his stomach. He raised a hand, only his dry-skinned fingers peeking from the sleeve's rim, to caress the back of her smooth palm. "Thanks, Pasha. For worrying. ...I like wearing the sweater, though. Not just for hiding, but to keep warm. The cracked parts feel very cold when in the air, and they dry out faster at the edges, makes it hurt. Keeping things warm helps." He let a peek of his smile show above the collar, eyebrows knotting up self-deprecatingly. "I'm kind of used to it by now, it's happened every year. You don't have to worry so. I'll be alright. It's just a little humiliating is all, and the aches and pains are more than bearable."

Pasha laughed at his response, feeling lighter now that he was sounding like himself again. "It's a hard life." She agreed, in response to his 'price.' Rivener WAS handsome, it was easy to see past the molting to the angle of his smile, the sharp light in his eyes. "I'm glad the sweater helps. It's good to have rituals, either way. Perhaps next time…you could invite me back…and we can start again with a blind fold until you remember how much easier it is like this."

She laid back on his bed, pale hair fanning across the dark coverlet, and rolled her head to the side to smile at him. The smell of their room was amazing, and she loved the feel of the duvet against her cheek. She'd never slept in the room before, despite the invitation, and despite how comfortable the bed was. "How do you spend your time, in March? Games, music?"

The Scorpion counted himself beyond lucky to have not just one lover who insisted he not hide away, but TWO. And both were so understanding and gentle with him during this time. Riv could be quite defensive during his molting, but he felt at ease around his loves. It was surprising. Pleasant. Pasha lay back and Riv watched her, enchanted at the vision of her looking so comfortable in his bed. He hoped someday she would take their invitation to sleep there: that would be sheer perfection, having both Zul and Pasha to curl up with while he slept.

Slowly, careful of his achy skin, Riv leaned down onto one elbow beside the Muse, smiling at her. "Maybe we'll be able to skip the blindfold next time. I'm sure I'll remember how wonderful you are, and won't need it." He tucked a strand of her hair off her forehead. "And spending my time... Video games and movies, mostly. Sometimes I will lay back and listen to music. Lots of baths too. The hot water stings at first but it really gives me relief. ...Actually," he leaned a little closer, smiling, "if you want to help me, perhaps you could find something to make baths soothing for the skin? You being such a bath expert and all." He chuckled lightly, figuring she would appreciate being asked for help. And to be honest Rivener did like a bit of being pampered and spoiled and babied when he was molting.

"I think…we should skip the bath salts. Just a guess." Her eyes twinkled as he moved the curl from her forehead, and she folded her hands low on her stomach. "I'd love to make a bath for you. I wonder if the hot springs would help, with all those minerals…"

For a moment, she trailed off, obviously thinking of their last holiday together. Pasha's cheeks went pink, and she lowered her lashes. "May I join you tomorrow? I'll bring things for the bath, and a better book that I can read to you while you soak. I've never read that one," She admitted, rolling her head to the side to briefly peer at the bag she'd brought. "But it had a samurai in a very nicely tailored business suit on the cover, which reminded me of you for some reason. What do you think?"

Rivener smirked. "Yeah, skipping the salt is probably best," he agreed, simply indulging in watching her for a moment as she relaxed. A short silence grew between them, comfortable, something Rivener would never have guessed might happen a few scant months ago. Suddenly she was blushing and Riv's eyebrows rose, wondering what she might be thinking about. Their hot springs trip? He smiled, flattered that she could get bashful recalling their time together.

"Of course you can join me tomorrow. If I had it my way you wouldn't even leave at all between now and then." A slight wink showed he wasn't really pressing her. "I would very much enjoy that, a bath and a book." That she wanted to read to him while he soaked was so damned adorable he couldn't help but grin. But when she descriped the book she HAD brought, Riv tilted his head. "A samurai in a nice business suit? Why would that remind you of me, I wonder? How did you even know he's a samurai?" The Scorpion chuckled, carefully dropping himself flat to the bed, wings rustling into a comfortable position on his back before he rolled himself over to face the ceiling. "But you can read whatever you wish. I'm sure I'll enjoy the samurai-business book." Suddenly he realized maybe she meant a Yakuza, and if that reminded her of Riv, she might be hitting the target way too close to the bullseye!

"A samurai? Because he is…Japanese…and has a samurai sword? He reminded me of you because he was sharply dressed AND dangerous." Pasha answered, guileless in her honesty. She reached forward again, brushing her thumb gently across his lips before parting them and pressing the pad of her finger against his fang. "Dangerous." She repeated, smile blossoming again. The Sigel hadn't even raised her head, still gazing sidelong at him from where they sprawled on the bed.

Absently, she moved her thumb to her own mouth. "If you need me here…I won't leave." She admitted after a moment, voice muffled as her lips pushed against her own thumb. "Until I have to work. What about you? Will you be in trouble for calling in?"

The fact that the Muse knew how much trouble you could get for calling in spoke volumes. It was obvious she wasn't talking about Vi. Her thoughts were only of Rivener, though, and his mysterious demanding job.

Rivener smirked. A sword, alright. That wasn't necessarily a yakuza. A moment later he was rather distracted by the way she touched him, calling him sharply dressed and dangerous. The Scorpion smiled, kissing her finger lightly before it escaped to press to her own lips. "I would love it if you stayed. Please." There could never be too much time with her. "My work knows about my month of March problem. They're not happy about it, but they understand. I told them it was an issue with my kind, Raevans... They don't know many of us." Riv sighed, shrugging a shoulder. "A little white lie, since most of us don't have such problematic things. But some do. So it's not a BIG lie."

Rivener didn't once think anything of Melisande saying there might be trouble for calling in sick. The Dark Sigel figured she meant that when she called in sick, her employers might guilt her because they had no replacement. Her being in any kind of REAL trouble was the furthest from his mind. Especially when he rolled over onto his elbows again and found her lips in another gentle kiss. He could kiss her for hours, and lingered longer than he probably should, but eventually he pulled himself away and smiled.

"Let's go to the living room. We can watch some TV together. Because if we just stay here I'm going to end up VERY distracted and demanding." His chuckle was self-deprecating. He pushed himself upright and straightened his sweater, then offered a crack-skinned hand for Melisande.

She placed her hand in his, gently, but not shying away. It was mostly sweater against her skin, Pasha noticed. "You mean, you'd feeling like yourself again?" Her eyes were the picture of innocence, and she fluffed her wings as she held back a laugh at his expression.

The couch was one of her favorite places in the house, and the Muse followed him there willingly. It was everything she'd never had. The comfort of it, the frivolous ways to pass the day, the memories of laughter and bodies pressed close to hers. She settled in to the end and opened her arms, inviting the other Sigel to recline against her. "What would you like to watch? Your pick!"

Pasha was being generous. She was a bit of a remote hog, TV still being so new to her, and absolutely remorseless about her fashion and cooking shows.

Rivener snorted in amusement at her false innocence, rolling his eyes over-dramatically. "I'm not THAT bad," he replied with a chuckle, leading her off the bed and into the living room. The Muse settled into the couch and Riv was more than happy to fall into her arms there, cuddling together in utter comfort, ready for a long day of doing nothing but watching TV. He hadn't been with her overly long but he knew enough of her habits to realize that her giving him the control of their TV-watching was quite something! He grinned happily and took the remote, flicking the appliance on. "How about we just see what we can find, hm?" And maybe he settled on a cooking show once or twice just to make her smile and feel happy, but it was the least he could do to show his appreciation. This horrible day was turning into one of his best, his great fear proven wrong. She, like Zul, didn't love him less for his looks. Rivener hadn't felt this happy during his molt, ever. "Thank you, Melisande. For staying. For accepting me like this." He sighed in contentment against her.

[[SOLO - Rivener and Aphismet having a talk about their respective lives]]